Tesla Model S owners are constantly seeking the best aftermarket accessories to enhance their driving experience, and one such popular addition is a high-quality dashcam. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on the best dash cams for Tesla Model S, including detailed descriptions, key features, and pros and cons for each recommendation.
Why Choose a Dash Cam for Your Tesla Model S?
Enhanced Security
A dashcam can provide an extra layer of security for your Tesla Model S, capturing incidents such as theft, vandalism, and hit-and-runs while parked or on the road.
Accident Evidence
In the event of an accident, a dashcam records essential evidence to prove your innocence or identify the at-fault driver, which can be invaluable for insurance claims and legal disputes.
Parking Protection
Many dashcams offer parking mode features, which monitor your vehicle while parked and capture any incidents, providing peace of mind when leaving your Tesla Model S unattended.
Improved Driving Habits
By reviewing dashcam footage, Tesla Model S owners can self-assess their driving habits and identify areas for improvement, leading to safer and more efficient driving.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Dash Cam for Tesla Model S
Video Quality
High-quality video resolution, such as 4K or Full HD, is crucial for capturing clear and detailed footage, especially when identifying license plates or other important details in an incident.
Field of View
A wider field of view (FOV) allows for more comprehensive coverage of the road ahead, as well as capturing footage from the sides and rear of the vehicle.
Parking Monitoring
Parking mode features, such as motion detection and impact sensors, help to protect your Tesla Model S while parked by capturing footage of incidents that may occur.
Price and Warranty
The best dashcam for your Tesla Model S should offer a balance of excellent features and affordability, while also providing a reliable warranty for peace of mind.
Top 6 Dashcams for Tesla Model X
1. Nextbase 622GW
The Nextbase 622GW boasts a 4K video at 30 fps, 140° FOV, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a 3″ IPS touchscreen. This all-rounder dashcam also features Emergency SOS, Alexa integration, digital stabilization, and a 1-year warranty. With a wide range of features and an optional rear camera, this dash cam is a top choice for Tesla Model S owners. However, it is more expensive than some alternatives.
The Best Over All Dash Cam
Nextbase 622GW dash cam for crystal-clear 4K videos, advanced features, and unmatched safety, all at your fingertips!
- Crystal-clear 4K videos.
- Advanced features.
- Enhanced safety.
- Stable footage.
What we like
- Top-notch 4K video: Crystal clear and detailed recordings.
- Loads of features: GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and touchscreen – it’s got it all.
- Emergency SOS: Extra safety with automatic alerts to emergency services.
- Alexa integration: Control your dash cam with voice commands for safer driving.
- Stable footage: Smooth videos, even on bumpy roads or at high speeds.
What we don’t like
- Pricey: Might be too much for some budgets.
- Rear camera not included: Extra cost if you want both front and rear coverage.
2. Thinkware U1000
The Thinkware U1000 offers outstanding 4K performance with a 4K front and 2K rear camera, 150° front viewing angle, and 156° rear viewing angle. It also includes GPS, Wi-Fi, and a 2-year warranty. Its stable parking mode and striking night vision performance make it an excellent choice, but it is expensive and not budget-friendly.
The Best Dash Cam On The Market.
Capture the Moment in Clarity: Unmatched 4K Performance & Night Vision Excellence”
- AUltra-HD Quality: 4K front and 2K rear cameras for stunning footage. •
- Expansive Viewing Angles: 150° front and 156° rear coverage. •
- Advanced Features: GPS and Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless integration. •
- Dependable Protection: 2-year warranty for peace of mind.
What we like
- High-quality video: 4K front, 2K rear
- Wide angles: 150° front, 156° rear
- GPS and Wi-Fi included
- 2-year warranty
What we don’t like
- Expensive
- Complicated features
- Bulky design
3. Vantrue N4
The Vantrue N4 features 4K front, Full HD cabin and rear cameras, a Sony Starvis sensor, WDR, supercapacitor, and an 18-month warranty. Its spectacular image quality, customizable settings, simultaneous monitoring of all three cameras, and easy installation make it a popular choice. However, GPS is not included, which may add additional costs.
Good All Rounder
Capture Your Journey in Stunning Clarity with Vantrue N4’s Triple-Lens System!
- 4K front, FHD cabin, and rear cameras for high-quality footage.
- Sony Starvis sensor and WDR technology for improved low-light performance.
- Supercapacitor for enhanced reliability and extended lifespan.
- 18-month warranty for peace of mind.
- Easy installation and customizable settings for a user-friendly experience.
What we like
- 4k font camera & 1080p rear
- 170° field of view.
- Voice control for convenience.
- Compact and easy to install.
What we don’t like
- No Rear 4K recording quality.
- Limited advanced features.
- No built-in Wi-Fi
- Lower resolution compared to competitors.
4. Red Tiger F7NS
The Red Tiger F7NS offers 4K front and Full HD rear cameras, a Sony CMOS sensor, night vision, Wi-Fi, GPS, and a 1-year warranty. With high-resolution recording, user-friendly interface, budget-friendly pricing, and high-performance features, this dash cam is a great choice for Tesla Model S owners. Note that the MicroSD card is not included.
Great Alternative.
Unlock Exceptional Quality on a Budget with the Red Tiger F7NS Dual-Camera Dash Cam!
- 4K front and FHD rear cameras for high-resolution recording.
- Sony CMOS sensor and night vision for clear footage in low light.
- Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities for easy location tracking and data sharing.
- Budget-friendly option with high-performance features.
- User-friendly interface and easy installation.
What we like
- High-resolution recording.
- Night vision for improved low-light footage.
- Wi-Fi and GPS capabilities.
- Budget-friendly and user-friendly.
What we don’t like
- MicroSD card not included.
- Shorter warranty than some competitors.
- Limited advanced features.
- Additional costs for storage.
5. Garmin 67W
The compact Garmin 67W features 1440p HD video, Garmin Clarity HDR, a 180° field of view, voice control, and a 2-year warranty. Its excellent app functionality, easy installation, and operation make it a popular option among Tesla Model S owners. However, it lacks 4K recording quality.
Great Littel Dash Cam
Experience Unparalleled Road Coverage with the Sleek and Smart Garmin 67W Dash Cam!
- 1440p HD recording with Garmin Clarity HDR for crisp, clear footage.
- 180° field of view for extensive road coverage.
- Voice control for hands-free operation and convenience.
- Compact size, making it unobtrusive and easy to install.
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind and product protection.
What we like
- 1440p HD with Garmin Clarity HDR.
- 180° field of view.
- Voice control for convenience.
- Compact and easy to install.
What we don’t like
- No 4K recording quality.
- Limited advanced features.
- Additional costs for optional accessories.
- Lower resolution compared to competitors.
6. BlackVue DR900X
The BlackVue DR900X provides 4K front and Full HD rear cameras, Sony Starvis UHD, a 162° viewing angle, dual-band Wi-Fi, and a 1-year warranty. Its high performance, built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, and spectacular night performance make it an excellent choice for Tesla Model S owners seeking premium features. However, it is expensive and not budget-friendly.
Most Expensive.
Experience Ultimate Clarity and Coverage with This Premium 4K Dual-Camera Dash Cam
- 4K front and 2K rear cameras for exceptional video quality.
- 150° front and 156° rear viewing angles for comprehensive road coverage.
- GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities for easy location tracking and data sharing.
- Stable parking mode for reliable monitoring while parked.
- 2-year warranty for peace of mind and product protection.
What we like
- Experience Ultimate Clarity and
- Coverage with This Premium 4K
- Dual-Camera Dash Cam!”
What we don’t like
- Expensive price point.
- Not budget-friendly.
- Limited additional features.
- Additional costs for optional accessories.
Top Pick
Thinkware U1000
- Crystal-clear 4K front Camera.
- Advanced GPS and Wi-Fi capabilities.
- Impressive night vision performance.
Editor’s choice
Nextbase 622GW
- Crystal-clear 4K videos.
- Advanced features.
- Enhanced safety.
- Stable footage.
Best Value
Garmin 67W
- 1440p HD & Garmin Clarity HDR.
- 180° field of view.
- GPS & Wi-Fi enabled.
Installing a Dash Cam on Tesla Model S
Choosing the Right Location
Select an optimal position for your dash cam that provides a clear view of the road ahead while remaining discreet and not obstructing your view.
Wiring and Power Supply
Properly wire the dash cam to the car’s electrical system, using a 12V power supply or hardwiring kit for a cleaner installation and more reliable power source.
Dash Cam Settings
Configure the dash cam settings according to your needs, such as video quality, loop recording, and parking mode features.
Understanding Tesla’s Built-in Dashcam and Sentry Mode
Tesla’s built-in dashcam and Sentry Mode utilize the vehicle’s Autopilot cameras to capture and store footage while parked or in motion. While this feature provides some protection, it may lack the advanced features and video quality of aftermarket dash cams.
How to Access and Manage Your Dashcam Footage
Dashcam footage can typically be accessed through the dash cam’s app, Wi-Fi, or by removing the MicroSD card for viewing on a computer. Regularly review and backup important footage to avoid overwriting valuable recordings.
Comparing Aftermarket Dash Cams with Tesla’s Built-in Dashcam
While Tesla’s built-in dashcam offers some protection, aftermarket dash cams often provide superior video quality, additional camera angles, and more advanced features, such as parking mode and GPS
functionality. Consider the benefits of upgrading to an aftermarket dash cam to enhance the security and protection of your Tesla Model S.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I power my dashcam in a Tesla Model S?
Dashcams can be powered using a 12V power supply or hardwired directly into the vehicle’s electrical system for a more secure and clean installation.
Can I use Tesla’s built-in cameras for dashcam purposes?
Yes, Tesla’s built-in dashcam and Sentry Mode utilize the vehicle’s Autopilot cameras to record footage while parked or driving. However, these features may not offer the same video quality or advanced capabilities as aftermarket dash cams.
Do dashcams drain the battery of my Tesla Model S?
Dashcams typically have minimal impact on the vehicle’s battery life, especially when wired correctly and configured with power-saving features such as parking mode.
Can I install a rear camera for my Tesla Model S?
Yes, many aftermarket dash cams offer rear camera options for additional coverage and security. Some dash cams, such as the Thinkware U1000 and Vantrue N4, include rear cameras in their standard configuration.
What is the best storage capacity for a dashcam in a Tesla Model S?
The ideal storage capacity depends on the video quality, recording duration, and frequency of reviewing and backing up footage. A 128GB or 256GB MicroSD card is typically sufficient for most users.
Conclusion
Selecting the best dash cam for your Tesla Model S can significantly enhance your vehicle’s security and provide valuable evidence in the event of an incident. By considering factors such as video quality, field of view, parking monitoring, and price, you can choose the perfect dash cam for your needs.
The top six dash cams for Tesla Model S mentioned in this article, including the Nextbase 622GW, Thinkware U1000, Vantrue N4, Red Tiger F7NS, Garmin 67W, and BlackVue DR900X, offer a range of features and performance capabilities to suit various budgets and preferences.
